Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB557

Filed

12/19/14

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the growth or cultivation of industrial hemp for certain research purposes.

Impact

The bill significantly aligns Texas state law with federal regulations regarding the cultivation of industrial hemp. By granting specific permissions for research, it opens the door for institutions to explore the various applications of industrial hemp, potentially leading to advancements in agriculture, medicine, and other fields. This legislation can facilitate academic studies that contribute to broader understanding and applications of hemp, while also potentially boosting local economies through agricultural research initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 557 addresses the growth and cultivation of industrial hemp specifically for research purposes. It amends the Texas Agriculture Code by introducing provisions that allow the Texas Department of Agriculture and institutions of higher education to engage in the cultivation of industrial hemp as outlined under federal law. It defines industrial hemp with a specific concentration of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and sets forth conditions under which individuals affiliated with designated institutions can legally cultivate and possess industrial hemp as part of sanctioned research efforts.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB557 appears to be positive among proponents of agricultural innovation and research. Supporters argue that the bill represents a progressive move that embraces the opportunities presented by the hemp industry. However, discussions may still bring forth concerns regarding the regulation and oversight of industrial hemp, as well as the implications of its cultivation on local agricultural practices. This may lead to a dialogue about the balance between advancing agricultural practices and monitoring the effects of hemp cultivation on communities.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, there could be notable points of contention regarding potential regulation and oversight of hemp cultivation. Concerns might arise around the environmental impacts, compliance requirements for institutions, and how this new agricultural sector could affect existing local farmers. Additionally, opponents may raise questions about the legal ambiguities surrounding hemp cultivation and its potential association with marijuana, despite the defined THC limits outlined in the bill.

Latest TX HB557 Activity

View All Events: TX 2015 - 84th Regular HB557

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB121

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.

TX HB1341

Relating to repealing certain offenses and removing certain regulations relating to the cultivation, manufacture, delivery, and possession of marihuana and cannabis.

TX HB2818

Relating to the production and regulation of hemp; providing an administrative penalty; requiring a permit to conduct certain research involving hemp; authorizing a fee; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3652

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of taxes and fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB209

Relating to regulating the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1937

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, use, and taxation of cannabis and cannabis products and local regulation of cannabis establishments; authorizing the imposition of fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense; imposing a tax.

TX HB1831

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, testing, transportation, delivery, transfer, possession, use, and taxation of cannabis and cannabis products and the local regulation of cannabis establishments; providing for expunction of records relating to certain decriminalized conduct; authorizing the imposition of fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense; imposing a tax.

TX SB127

Relating to the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for use by patients as the best available medical treatment, the licensing of medical cannabis dispensing organizations, and the registration of certain individuals; authorizing fees.

TX HB1200

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for medical use by qualifying patients with certain debilitating medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations and cannabis testing facilities; authorizing fees.

TX HB2995

Relating to the prescribing of medical cannabis for medical use to certain veterans with combat-related injuries or medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations under the Texas Compassionate Use Program.

Similar Bills

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Controlled substances: research.

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